The Human Effect On The Ecosystem

The Human Effect On The Ecosystem Biodiversity has always been in a flux with species adapting to new environments or extinction but these circumstances are all through natural occurrences and through a period of thousands of years and so allowing the dependant consumers and trophic levels to adapt. However, since the Human population began to expand hugely since the industrial revolution we have been directly responsible for the extinction of dozens of species such as the Passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) and indirectly responsible for many others. As the human population continues to grow we will require more resources and to expand our living area, in this case we have exploited the natural resources to breaking point and have expanded into synthetic products that damage the ecosystem even further. The idea that we should be working to repair the damage that has been caused by our rapid growth is a relatively new concept and has still not been accepted by many countries but efforts are being made to protec t the remaining communities and ecosystems. Humans have modified ecosystems for our benefit such as agriculture which focuses on the mass production of a selected few products for our consumption; this is extremely effective in feeding a large population while incorporating only 3 trophic levels, the producer (crops), the primary and secondary consumers (humans, livestock). This method also benefits energy, keeping any loss at a minimum especially when combined with synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. However when looking at the damage this method causes to other populations there is huge fallout, we use pesticides which kill any local insect populations, and fertilizers run off the fields and contaminate the local areas, freshwater and coastal ecosystems both biotic and abiotic. we effectively destroy large areas to accommodate these fields which remove natural habitats for many species which places a huge pressure on the ecosystem (McShaffrey: http://www.marietta.edu/~mcshaffd/) Using biotechnology scientists have adapted blue green algae to act as a cost-effective bio fertilizer, utilising its natural nitrogen fixation to add nutrients to crops instead of relying on the more harmful, synthetic fertilizer, reducing harmful effects of the man-made substances, using natural bio waste and recycling energy flows far more efficiently. http://agritech.tnau.ac.in/org_farm/orgfarm_biofertilizertechnology.html) [emailprotected] Department of Agricultural Microbiology The human effect on the ecosystem has damaged many areas both directly and indirectly such as pollution, climate change and introduction of foreign species. In the last 50 years the global economic activity has increased 7 fold in the last 50 years and trends suggest that as our population continues to rise the ecosystem will suffer more http://www.greenfacts.org. Land and forests are in greater demand for agricultural, industrial and housing which destroy natural habitats of native species and force them out. Forest fragmentation increases the risk of extinction as the smaller a space the smaller the population it can support. Combining this with the introduction of alien species, i.e. imported from other countries and then escape into a new ecosystem, this is a major cause of the extinction to local species such as the American mink escaping into the British countryside, this non-native carnivore has posed a significant threat to fish, poultry and game birds, The introduction of ne w diseases that can prove devastating, Dutch elm disease has wiped out the British elm tree which then saw a huge decline in the producers for oxygen and allowed more non-native trees to grow in their place. (UK Pest Control Directory | Pest Control UK | www.pestcontrol-uk.org.) With recent attempts to cut our ecological footprint and ease pressure on the ecosystem as much as possible we have introduced measures that manage as much of our resources as possible, Protected areas and set-aside fields have given wildlife a chance to recover its nutrients from decades of abuse while the government allows a subsidy to the farmers that do this. While protected areas such as these are a good start it is not sufficient to recover biodiversity. The restoration process is producing strong results and is evolving rapidly due to increased awareness and changes in priority, Using a holistic approach Restoration technology is now able to return certain damaged areas of ecosystems to their natural balance . (B. C. Rana Damaged Ecosystems and Restoration) Ecological damage is now a large part of political arguments, bringing them to the public attention and changing the public attitude towards these issues as well. Ecosystems are already showing negative impacts under current levels of climate change à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ which is modest compared to future projected changesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. In addition to warming temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events and changing patterns of rainfall and drought can be expected to have significant impacts on biodiversity. (Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (2010) Pollutants such as oil, gas fumes, and synthetic chemicals have created the most widespread impact to the ecosystem with temperatures in flux, the polar icecaps melting, acid rain and the damage to the Ozone layer. Native plants are unable to thrive in the acid rich soils making for fewer producers and less for the primary consumers to absorb this carries throughout the chain (Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2009) In conclusion, While biodiversity is still present it is true that the increased pressure has from pollutants and destruction of natural environments has greatly affected the progress, wiping out many species and allowing other to thrive in their stead have changed the ecosystem entirely. However since the introduction of conservation policies there are signs that damage is slowing, but not significantly, ultimately in order for the biodiversity to recover to a sustainable amount we need to employ a strict long term plan to reduce any further growth and concentrate on technology or holistic remedies to repair any recoverable damage from the environments Environmental Biology Sequence Ecosystems. 2013. Environmental Biology Sequence Ecosystems. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www.marietta.edu/~biol/102/ecosystem.html#HumanvsNaturalFoodChains7 UK Pest Control Directory | Pest Control UK | www.pestcontrol-uk.org.

American Pit Bull Terriers

The history of modern American Pit Bull Terrier, often abbreviated as APBT, started in England and the early 19th century. The breed resulted from crosses of terriers with bully type dogs. In those times, the ancestors of modern American Pit Bull Terriers were used as working dogs to control unruly bulls for butchers and farmers. They were also used for the cruel sport of bull baiting. However, the historians point out the year 1835 as the turning point in the history of pit bulls, when the practice of bull baiting was replaced by the practice of another bloody sport of dog fighting.That’s why it won’t be a mistake to say that the breed has fighting origins. The first breed registry for the registration and acceptance of pit bulls was started in 1898 by Chauncy Bennet and called the UKC. He wanted to create an organization that would represent the breed as performance dogs and he added â€Å"American† and tried to eliminate â€Å"Pit† from the APBT’ s name but â€Å"Pit† was added back soon. The requirement for a dog to become a part of the UKC was the victory in three fights at minimum, but this requirement became history with the time.Second oldest organization dedicated to pit bulls, American Dog Breeders Association, was formed in 1909 by Guy McCord. The ultimate goal of the association was to probe the performance quality of a pit bull without actual dog fight. Around that time the AKC registered pit bulls under the name of the Staffordshire Terrier. This was changed to the American Staffordshire Terrier in the year 1972. Pit bulls and American Staffordshire Terriers displayed physically identity until 1936.It was the year when American Staffordshire Terriers were bred for conformation only and their breed requirements were moving to more and more stringent, while pit bulls were bred for both fighting and conformation shows. American Staffordshire Terriers became flashier with blockier heads, larger chests and a thi cker jaw, and pit bulls varied phenotypically. Modern pit bulls can be easily recognized by the following characteristic: they are â€Å"blocky and broad, the head's classic chiseled appearance, packed with bulging muscle, combines character with strength.† (O'Neil, 1995, p. 5) Breed standards say that an ideal dog should be medium-sized, solidly built, short-coated dog with smooth, well-defined musculature. Ears are small to medium in size, high set, and may be natural or cropped. The dog can be of all colours and colour patterns, except merde. The head of pit bull is the pivotal element of breed type, being large and broad to create the impression of great power, but never disproportionate to the size of the whole dog.The head should be shaped like a broad and blunt wedge when viewed from the front. The neck should be of moderate length and muscular. The shoulder blades should be muscular as well, and also long, wide, and well laid back. The chest should be deep, well fille d in, and moderately wide, but the chest can’t be wider than it is deep. The feet have to be round, proportionate to the size of the body, well arched, and tight.Faults of the dog include bulky or muscle-bound or fine-boned and rangy appearance, level bite, snipey muzzle, flews, weak lower jaw, short or thick or weak or ewe neck, dewlap, upright or loaded shoulders, elbows turned outward or tied-in, down at the pasterns, front legs bowed, wrists knuckled over, toeing in or out, narrow hindquarters, hindquarters shallow from pelvis to crotch, lack of muscle, straight or over angulated stifle joint, cow hocks, sickle hocks, bowed legs, splayed feet, long tail, curly, wavy, or sparse coat, legs not moving on the same plane, legs over reaching, legs crossing over in front or rear, rear legs moving too close or touching, rolling, pacing, paddling, sidewinding, hackney action, pounding. Serious faults are bulging eyes, both eyes not matched in color, blue eyes, undershot, or oversh ot bite, wry mouth, missing teeth, gay or kinked tail.Disqualification is bobbed tail, long coat, merle, albinism, unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid, viciousness or extreme shyness, unilateral or bilateral deafness. As for the temperament, pit bulls are bred to be exceptionally sturdy and extremely human friendly, athletic, courageous, and tenacious. Pi bulls are also â€Å"known for being highly adaptable. They can change owners and move to another home with ease, provided their new family gives them attention and love. Pit Bulls are excellent at discerning when to show affection and when to show aggression. † (O'Neil, 1995, p. 33) What is true, however, is that an owner should carefully socialize and obedience train the dog because pit bulls can occasionally exhibit some level of dog aggression, which is different from human aggression anyway.But in general, these dogs show strength, indomitable courage, and gentleness with loved ones. This is â€Å"a dog that combined t he gameness of the terrier with the strength and athleticism of the Bulldog. † (The Rare Breed Dog Association, 2004, para. 1) As for the breed specific legislation, it generally bans or restricts particular breeds or mixes. A dog of a banned breed can be confiscated by the authorities and killed. A dog of a restricted breed must be confined, muzzled, chained, or restricted in other ways and owners must provide proof of liability insurance that covers dog bites. In some jurisdictions, dogs of restricted breeds and mixes must be identified by microchip or tattoo and have mug shots on file with police.Pit bulls are banned in Lynnville, Tennessee; Chamberlain, South Dakota; Pawtucket, Rhode Island; Minot, North Dakota; Salisbury and Carl Junction, Missouri; Inman, Kansas; Lockridge, Iowa; Stone Park and Buffalo Grove (restricted), Illinois; North Little Rock, Arkansas. Ohio state declared pit bulls as dangerous and vicious dogs. Many people believe that the application of breed s pecific legislation is unfair, because it often rests on myths and misconceptions. Breed specific legislation is a regulation of the right to own a dog based solely on the breed of dog, not one’s responsibility as an owner. Pit bulls are largely misunderstood and misrepresented by the public today, and there is a clear and consistent need to debunk some myths and falsehoods about the breed.One of the most widespread myths about pit bull terriers is that they are inherently aggressive. However, the facts say the opposite. While pit bulls were bred to be courageous and utterly devoid of pain sensations, they were never bred to be aggressive. Pit bulls were not only fighting breed, but family pets as well, therefore no aggression towards humans has ever been tolerated. Moreover, it would be simply impossible to control an aggressive dog before or after a fight. Pit bulls that showed human aggression were typically shoot, that’s why only human friendly lines were desired a nd perpetuated. Indeed, â€Å"[a] Pit Bull with the correct temperament will not threaten to attack a human without a very good reason†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (O'Neil, 1995, p. 32)The facts clearly show that pit bulls â€Å"are not the stereotypical devil dog put forth in media myths. They are companion animals who have enhanced the lives of many through their devoted people-loving natures, positively channeled physical prowess, bravery, and intelligence. Pit Bulls have served key roles in search-and-rescue efforts, excel in agility training, and work nationwide as therapy and service dogs. † (PAW, n/d. , â€Å"The Truth About Pit Bulls†, para. 1) Another popular myth about pit bulls is that they have a locking jaw and 1600 P. S. I. in jaw pressure. But these dogs don’t â€Å"have a triple-hinged jaw capable of extraordinary feats of strength.As any owner of a ball-crazy Golden retriever will tell you, the clamp of the jaw is as much a function of psychology as physiolo gy, and any dog can clamp down beyond the capability of a human to pry open. † (Keith, 2005, para. 10) Still, there are some important facts an owner should know about his or her dog. Training is very important for pit bulls. â€Å"Training is the jewel in the crown-the most important aspect of doggy husbandry. † (O'Neil, 1995, p. 98) American Canine Temperament Testing Association organized special tests for dogs’ temperament, and 95% of the American Pit Bull Terriers passed, compared to a 77% passing rate for all breeds in general.Moreover, APBTs had a passing rate that was the fourth highest of all 122 breeds tested. (PAW, n/d. , â€Å"Myth-Busters†, para. 5) But there are several things each owner should consider about his or her pet. â€Å"Pit Bulls are strong and energetic, so we recommend that owners take them to obedience classes as soon as they are up to date on shots. Pit Bulls suffer from prejudice and misunderstanding, so ownership requires a willingness to consider your neighbors' concerns and educate them. † (PAW, n/d. , â€Å"Being Aware and Prepared†, para. 1-2) Life with a well-trained pit bull is a sheer pleasure. These dogs â€Å"are wonderful, loyal, intelligent companions and are truly people-dogs; they want and need companionship of their owners.One of their most prominent breed traits is reliability with and friendliness to people, so some people call them ‘pet bulls. ’ Pit Bulls are extremely affectionate and love to cuddle. Pit Bulls also make great athletic partners and often excel in obedience work. † (PAW, n/d. , para. 1) The dog â€Å"is usually very friendly, but has an uncanny ability to know when it needs to protect and when everything is okay [but] can be willful and needs a firm hand. † (DogBreedInfo. com, n/d. , â€Å"Temperament†) So pit bull owners experience so much joy in being with their dogs. However, these dogs are suitable for people possessing certain traits of character.â€Å"If dogs could choose their owners instead of the other way around, American Pit Bull Terriers would probably look for owners who are blessed with high spirits and the joy of living. † (O'Neil, 1995, p. 37) These dogs make excellent family companions and have always been noted for their devoted love of children. Still, pit bulls are not recommended for those who don’t have enough (or at least some) experience with dogs; wants a dog as a macho status symbol; tends to be irresponsible, lax or neglectful; is not very familiar with the breed; expects to let their dog run around off-leash in public places. (Kovary, 1999) Dogs do well in urban settings but should have enough exercise and other positive outlets for their energy and vitality.They are generally good with children, but a senior dog is recommended for the households with small kids. Pit bulls are loving and very loyal companions for owners, especially if the owners establish thei r leadership in a humane and consistent way. Pit bulls should always respect and obey the owner. Therefore, we see that American Pit Bull Terrier is a dog with its peculiar history and characteristics, surrounded by many myths and ambiguities. References O'Neil, J. The American Pit Bull Terrier: An Owner's Guideto a Happy Healthy Pet. New York: Howell Book House, 2nd ed. , 1995. The Rare Breed Dog Association in the United States of America. â€Å"American Pit Bull Terrier: Official U. K. C.Breed Standard. † 21 October 2004. 17 October 2005. PAW. â€Å"Pet Bull Corner. † N/d. 17 October 2005. Keith, C. â€Å"Triple-Hinged Jaws of Doom†¦ And Other Myths About the Pit Bull. † 2005. 17 October 2005. DogBreedInfo. com. â€Å"American Pit Bull Terrier. † N/d. 17 October 2005. Kovary, R. â€Å"The St. Francis Terrier — Rediscovering The American Pit Bull Terrier. † American Dog Trainers Network. 1999. 17 October 2005.

BayState Realty Case Study Essay

1. Use a table to identify the software products sited above that fall within the following categories of software: System Software General Purpose Software Application Specific Software An operating system built to control and operate the hardware system Protect the firm’s hardware platforms from intrusion, malware, and computer viruses Dell laptops and desktop computers running Microsoft’s Windows operating system Allows users to accomplish simple computer related tasks Standardizes and minimizes implementation costs Facilitates staff training Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Outlook, and Microsoft SharePoint For an end user Document and management system The CRM system, an Accounting System, a Human Resource Management System, a Real Estate Sales Documentation and Management System, and a Rental Property Management System 2. Use a second table to identify and explain the various elements in the total cost of software ownership and then list the steps taken by the CIO to limit the firm’s software TCO expenditures. Elements in the Total Cost of Software Ownership Steps Taken by the CIO to Limit the Firm’s Software TCO Expenditures Software and hardware upgrades Time to renew hardware and software Training for new and current employees Hiring MIS or IT personnel Sale Price Licensing 1. Focus on the procurement and deployment of a limited set of well-established, off-the-shelf products 2. Negotiate favorable licensing terms with Microsoft for the initial acquisition of products, to standardize and minimize implementation costs, and to limit firm investments in ongoing staff training and product documentation and support 3. Work closely with their line-of-business colleagues to select best-in-breed application specific software 4. Adapt their business processes to make the best use of the software and by doing so, better control the TCO for that software 5. Implement Linux (an open source software product) as the operating system of choice for servers running shared applications 3. List the reasons why BayState Realty chose to go with off-the-shelf software instead of developing their own software packages in house. BayState is mainly focused on their real estate agencies, so by doing so they can continue to focus on their business which means it is preferable for them to go with off-the-shelf software The software has already been tested by the company. Besides the test, the software company also provides warranty service It is available for computer shops, so there are lots of computer shops solving Window software problems It can easily find the same users so they can share their experiences easily and answer any questions about the system 4. List the reasons why it makes sense to go with Linux. Be sure to include how this particular use of open source software mitigates the risks typically associated with the choice of an open source software product. Linux is free or cheaper so it is beneficial for users that it is not owned by the company The software is unlikely to get computer viruses or other malware Hardware independent – operating system in advance and advantage Community relationship – Instead of establishing customer relationships, Linux shares with lots of vendors and is part of the community not a single user. Interoperability – able to connect to networks and communities easily You can select the best tools you need 5. Compare the advantages and the disadvantages associated with outsourcing the hosting of the firm’s three web sites. Advantages: Hosts the firm’s three Web sites Saves time – Do not have to spend time to manage the website Better equipped – Proficiency in creation, innovation, and design Low cost – helps customers manage their money wisely Use the correct Internet strategy, like formulating marketing programs Disadvantages: Hidden cost – it has a low cost for website outsourcing, but there are several costs behind the price, such as signing a contract Exposing data – BayState Company is sharing their information with a third party Lack of focusing on their customers – instead of customizing, vendor may be creating an expertise-need

Vygotsky And Vygotsky s Theory Of Development - 791 Words

Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky are prominent influential figures in the field of developmental psychology. The purpose of this paper is to compare and contrast their theories of development, as well as identified what can be gained through a better understanding of the theories. A Brief Summary of the Theories of Piaget and Vygotsky Piaget’s theory of development is based on four stages: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational stage. Piaget believed development was autonomous and individuals went through all stages, albeit some at different rates (Blake and Pope, 2008). Piaget believed children developed knowledge from within (Lourenco, 2012). Lev Vygotsky s work is centered around the basis that development is shaped through an individual s social interactions and cultural influence (Lourenco, 2012). In Vygotsky s concept of the zone of proximal development, he studied what an individual can do without help and what an individual can do with scaffolding from an adult (Blake and Pope, 2008). Similarities in the Theories of Piaget and Vygotsky While Piaget and Vygotsky are thought to be quiet different in their theories of development, similarities can be found. Both men believed in a developmental perspective and t hat development involves interaction within one s own environment. In Piaget s assimilation/accommodation and Vygotsky s internalization/externalization, a learner uses these processes to make sense of new information.Show MoreRelatedVygotsky And Vygotsky s Theory Of Cognitive Development Of Thought And Language Essay1060 Words   |  5 PagesAilà ­n Florencia Thought and Language: independent processes. With the passing of time, the development of thought and language has been the object of study for psychologists such as Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky. 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Vygotsky developed the sociocultural theory, which is the theory of human development through social and cultural influences (Aimin, 2013), during the 1920’s-30’s. One of Vygotsky’s focuses was the concept of the zone of proximal development (ZPD), which is the idea of a child being appropriately challenged, this will be discussed further on. His theory stemmed from how children’s learning is impacted greatlyRead MoreVygotsky s Theory Of Cognitive Development1149 Words   |  5 Pages Piaget and Vygotsky are two well-known individuals in the history of psychology. The two psychologists held different beliefs regarding Cognitive Development in children. According to the text, â€Å"Piagetâ₠¬â„¢s theory of cognitive development proposes that a child’s intellect, or cognitive ability, progress through four distinct stages† (Pg. 25). The stages are Sensorimotor Stage, Preoperational Stage, Concrete Operational Stage, and Formal Operational Stage. 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The purpose of this paper is to show some similarities as well as differences in the theories of Piaget and Vygotsky and whatRead MoreVygotsky s Sociocultural Theory Of Development2288 Words   |  10 Pageswill discuss the overlying theory of Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory of Development as well as Piaget’s Stages of Development. Through outlining each theory and describing the research, a better understanding will be gained in how each can be applied within a primary classroom. Within the sociocultural theory of development lies terms which will be discussed and critiqued in regards to education. The main terms which will be reviewed are the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), a more knowledgeable